About the region
Travel to Sicily
Sicily is a stunning island located off the southern coast of Italy, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The island is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions to explore. Ancient ruins such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina offer a glimpse into the island's fascinating past. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque coastal towns of Taormina and Cefalù, or explore the lively markets and historic landmarks of Palermo and Catania. The island's natural beauty is also a major draw, with the towering Mount Etna and the turquoise waters of the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro offering breathtaking views. In addition to sightseeing, visitors can also enjoy the delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and sweet treats like cannoli. With so much to see and do, a trip to Sicily is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Getting to Sicily
Sicily can be reached by air, land, or sea, depending on where you are traveling from. The easiest and most common way to get to Sicily is by flying into one of the island's major airports, such as Falcone-Borsellino Airport in Palermo or Catania-Fontanarossa Airport in Catania. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Sicily from major European cities, as well as some cities in the United States and Canada.
If you are traveling by land, there are several ways to reach Sicily. You can take a train or bus to one of the island's major cities, such as Palermo, Catania, or Messina, and then take a ferry across the Strait of Messina to Sicily. Alternatively, you can drive to one of the ferry ports in southern Italy and take a car ferry to Sicily.
Finally, if you are traveling by sea, there are several ferry companies that operate routes to Sicily from cities along the Italian mainland, as well as from other Mediterranean countries such as Malta and Tunisia. Overall, there are many options for getting to Sicily, so choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Sicily
Sicily is a popular tourist destination, but for those looking for a more unique and off the beaten track experience, there are plenty of alternative accommodations and activities to explore.
One option is to stay in a traditional agriturismo, or farmhouse, where guests can experience the rural side of Sicily. These accommodations offer the chance to stay in a rustic, countryside setting and enjoy home-cooked meals made with fresh local ingredients. Many agriturismos also offer activities such as cooking classes, wine tastings, and farm tours.
For those looking for a more active vacation, hiking in the Madonie Mountains or the Zingaro Nature Reserve can be a great option. These areas offer stunning landscapes and the chance to explore Sicily's natural beauty. There are also opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, and even paragliding.
Another unique experience is to visit the town of Sambuca di Sicilia, which has recently gained attention for its project to sell abandoned homes for just one euro. Visitors can explore the town and even purchase one of these affordable properties, which can make for a great investment or a unique vacation home.
Finally, for those interested in history and archaeology, there are lesser-known sites such as the Greek ruins of Selinunte or the Roman amphitheater in Syracuse. These sites are just as impressive as the more well-known attractions, but without the crowds.
Overall, there are many alternative and off the beaten track experiences to be had in Sicily. Whether it's staying in a farmhouse, hiking in the mountains, or exploring lesser-known historical sites, these experiences offer a unique and authentic way to discover all that this beautiful island has to offer.
Top 10 things to do in Sicily
- See impressive and well-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world.
- Explore the historic landmarks and lively markets of Palermo, the island's capital city and cultural hub.
- Take a stroll through the picturesque coastal town of Taormina, known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Admire the impressive Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the charming seaside town of Cefalù, known for its beautiful beaches, quaint streets, and medieval cathedral.
- Hike to the summit of Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, for breathtaking views and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Visit the beautiful Baroque town of Noto, known for its stunning architecture and lively cultural scene.
- Take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, a protected nature reserve with beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
- Explore the historic town of Syracuse, home to the ancient Greek Theatre and the beautiful Ortigia Island.
- Indulge in the delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and sweet treats like cannoli.
The climate of Sicily
mild and pleasant climate year-round. Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F) and very little rain. The hottest months are July and August, when temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) in some areas.
Winter in Sicily is mild and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F) in most areas. The wettest months are November through February, with occasional heavy rains and thunderstorms. Snowfall is rare in most parts of Sicily, although the higher elevations of Mount Etna can receive snow during the winter months.
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to visit Sicily, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful blooming landscapes. The months of April, May, October, and early November offer comfortable temperatures, averaging around 20°C (68°F), and lower prices for accommodations and flights.
Overall, the climate in Sicily is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and sunshine. However, visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures during the summer months and occasional rain during the winter season.